Welcome to our festive collection of Easy Holiday Recipes, designed to bring joy and flavor to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this carefully curated selection caters to all, featuring a variety of appetizers, mains, sides, desserts, and drinks that encapsulate the spirit of the holiday season.
With options for different dietary needs, these recipes are not only mouthwatering but also inclusive, ensuring everyone can indulge in the holiday cheer. Get ready to impress your guests and create new traditions with these simple yet spectacular dishes.
Easy Holiday Recipes
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Appetizers, Breads & Spreads
Roasted Rosemary Almonds
Roasted Rosemary Almonds are a simple yet sophisticated snack that's perfect for holiday munching. The aromatic rosemary pairs wonderfully with the toasted richness of the almonds, and a hint of sea salt brings all the flavors together. These almonds are great for snacking on their own or for adding a crunchy element to your holiday cheeseboard.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole almonds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary finely chopped
- Coarse sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, toss the almonds with olive oil and chopped rosemary until well coated.
- Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Sprinkle with coarse sea salt while still warm.
- Let them cool before serving.
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
This tart is a showcase of sweet caramelized onions on a bed of creamy goat cheese, encased in a flaky pastry crust – a harmonious blend of flavors that's sure to delight.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large onions thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbled
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out puff pastry to fit a tart pan. Prick with a fork and bake for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and cook onions until caramelized, then stir in balsamic vinegar.
- Spread the caramelized onions over the pre-baked crust.
- Dot with goat cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Rosemary Garlic Focaccia
An aromatic and fluffy focaccia bread infused with the flavors of fresh rosemary and minced garlic, topped with coarse sea salt for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups flour
- 1 packet yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Coarse sea salt
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Combine flour, yeast, and warm water to form a dough and let rise until doubled in size.
- Gently press the dough into a baking tray.
- Create dimples in the dough with your fingertips.
- Sprinkle with rosemary, garlic, and sea salt, then drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake until golden brown and enjoy warm.
Cranberry Walnut Spread
A sweet and tangy spread made with fresh cranberries and walnuts, perfect for spreading on toast or as a complement to cheese platters.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- Cool and serve as a spread or a condiment.
Smoked Salmon Crostini
For a touch of sophistication, these smoked salmon crostini offer a symphony of flavors: the richness of salmon, the tang of cream cheese, and the crispness of freshly toasted bread.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette sliced and toasted
- 8 oz smoked salmon
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Capers for garnish
Instructions
- Spread cream cheese on each slice of toasted baguette.
- Place a piece of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
- Sprinkle with dill, lemon zest, and capers.
- Serve immediately, offering a delightful contrast of textures and a burst of savory flavors.
Baked Camembert with Honey and Thyme
Savor the luscious meltiness of baked Camembert, topped with a drizzle of honey and thyme, creating a perfect fusion of sweet and savory for an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel Camembert cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Baguette slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place Camembert in a baking dish. Score the top in a crosshatch pattern.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is soft and gooey.
- Serve with baguette slices for dipping into the melted cheese heaven.
Soups & Salads
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
A smooth and creamy soup made from roasted butternut squash blended with vegetable broth and seasoned with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, perfect for warming up during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toss the butternut squash in olive oil and roast until tender.
- Blend the roasted squash with vegetable broth until smooth.
- Simmer in a pot and season with nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot with a dollop of cream or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds if desired.
Festive Pomegranate Salad
A vibrant salad that combines the crispness of fresh greens with the juicy burst of pomegranate seeds, crunchy walnuts, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed with a light balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- Mixed greens spinach, arugula, and lettuce
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbles
- Balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and walnuts.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle feta cheese over the top before serving.
Winter Fruit Salad
Brighten up the cold days with a winter fruit salad, bursting with the vibrant flavors of seasonal fruits and a hint of fresh mint for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups mixed winter fruits such as pomegranate seeds, kiwi, oranges, apples
- 1/4 cup honey
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the winter fruits.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lemon juice.
- Pour the honey lemon dressing over the fruit and gently toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with chopped mint for a refreshing aroma.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Side Dishes
Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes
Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes are a delightful side dish that's both comforting and elegant. The potatoes are roasted to perfection with a golden crust outside and tender inside, all brought together by a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes halved
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Toss the potatoes in the garlic butter, then spread them on a baking sheet.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and fork-tender.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Transform simple carrots into a dish of sheer delight. Glistening with a honey glaze, these tender slices carry the joy of the holiday table, offering a sweet contrast that complements any festive platter.
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the carrots and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Drizzle the honey over the carrots, and season with salt and pepper.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and glazed, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Savory Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your feast with the rich, velvety texture of these mashed sweet potatoes. Each forkful is infused with the subtle warmth of garlic and the earthiness of thyme, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that'll enchant your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add garlic, butter, thyme, and milk to the pot with the potatoes.
- Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garlicky Green Beans Almondine
Savor the classic elegance of green beans almondine, enlivened with slivers of garlic. The crunch of toasted almonds interplays with the snappy freshness of the beans, crafting a dish that dances between indulgent and invigorating.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Blanch the green beans in a pot of boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately immerse them in ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and almonds, and cook until they are golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the green beans to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic and almonds. Cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Welcome a touch of autumnal sweetness to your table with these maple roasted Brussels sprouts. The sprouts emerge from the oven caramelized and tender, each leaf edged with the rich, deep flavors of pure maple syrup and a hint of mustard, celebrating the essence of holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, and mustard.
- Add Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
- Serve warm as a delightful side that pairs wonderfully with any main course.
Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
These vibrant vegetarian stuffed peppers are a mosaic of colors and flavors, featuring a hearty blend of rice, vegetables, and cheese. They offer a welcoming warmth, perfect for a festive vegetarian option or a colorful side.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers assorted colors
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a bowl, mix together rice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, half of the cheese, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the peppers with the rice mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the stuffed peppers.
- Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve these festive peppers with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Cheesy Potato Gratin
This cheesy potato gratin is a symphony of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. It's a decadent side dish that promises to comfort and satisfy in every creamy, cheesy bite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rub a garlic clove around the inside of a baking dish, then layer the potato slices in the dish.
- In a saucepan, heat the cream with minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the potatoes and sprinkle with the grated Gruyère.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Let the gratin stand for a few minutes before serving, allowing every layer to reveal its creamy, cheesy glory.
Cheddar and Chive Biscuits
These cheddar and chive biscuits are a flaky, buttery delight, with pockets of sharp cheddar and the fresh zing of chives creating a savory treat that pairs wonderfully with any meal or serves as a delightful snack on their own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 3/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in cheddar cheese and chives.
- Add milk and stir until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently.
- Roll out the dough to about 1 inch thick and cut with a biscuit cutter.
- Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve these biscuits warm, allowing the cheddar to make its presence known with every bite.
Main Dishes
Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken
This Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken is a classic centerpiece for any holiday meal. Juicy on the inside with a herbaceous, crispy skin, it's seasoned with a blend of thyme, rosemary, and sage which permeates the meat with deep flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4-5 pounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lemon halved
- 4 cloves garlic smashed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken dry and rub with olive oil.
- Mix the chopped herbs, salt, and pepper, and rub the mixture all over the chicken.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and garlic cloves.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast
Celebrate the holidays with this apple cider glazed turkey breast, an ode to tradition with a modern twist. The glaze, a reduction of apple cider, imbues the meat with a sweetness and depth that is as comforting as it is luxurious, ensuring your holiday meal is both intimate and grand.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in turkey breast about 6 pounds
- 2 cups apple cider
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, reduce the apple cider over medium heat to about 1/2 cup.
- Stir in honey, mustard, and thyme to the reduced cider to make the glaze.
- Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
- Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
- Brush the turkey liberally with the cider glaze.
- Roast the turkey for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with additional glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the turkey rest before slicing, offering a succulent, flavorful centerpiece that is simpler than a whole turkey but just as festive.
Baked Honey Mustard Ham (Gluten-Free)
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with this succulent baked ham glazed in a honey mustard sauce. A gluten-free centerpiece that promises to be the highlight of your holiday feast.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in half ham about 5-7 pounds
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Remove the skin and excess fat from the ham and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover loosely with foil.
- Bake for 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).
- While the ham bakes, whisk together honey, both mustards, brown sugar, paprika, and ground cloves to create the glaze.
- Remove the ham from the oven, uncover, and brush generously with the glaze.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to serve.
Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Delight in the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach stuffed in roasted acorn squash. A vegan and gluten-free dish that's not only nourishing but also a feast for the eyes.
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squashes halved and seeded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup mushrooms chopped
- 2 cups spinach roughly chopped
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash cut-side down on the baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes until tender.
- While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- Stir in the spinach until wilted, then remove from heat and mix in the cooked quinoa, thyme, and sage.
- Once the squashes are roasted, fill them with the mushroom and spinach mixture.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Serve warm as a satisfying vegan main course.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Vegetables
Succumb to the rich flavors of tender chicken thighs and a medley of roasted vegetables, all cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce. A one-pan wonder that simplifies your holiday cooking without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby potatoes halved
- 1 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup green beans trimmed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large oven-proof pan and brush them with half of the garlic butter mixture.
- Scatter the vegetables around the chicken and brush them with the remaining mixture.
- Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve directly from the pan for a homely and hearty holiday meal.
Lentil and Walnut Holiday Loaf
Indulge in a vegan holiday loaf rich with lentils, walnuts, and savory herbs. This hearty dish is a testament that plant-based eating can be both luxurious and comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked green lentils
- 1 cup walnuts finely chopped
- 1 onion finely diced
- 2 celery stalks finely chopped
- 2 carrots grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs gluten-free if necessary
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water flax eggs
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce gluten-free if necessary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash half of the cooked lentils until mostly smooth.
- Add in the remaining lentils, walnuts, onion, celery, carrots, and garlic, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the breadcrumbs, flax eggs, tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and the top has a slight crust.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting it out onto a serving platter.
- Slice and serve as a vegan alternative to traditional meatloaf, garnished with fresh herbs.
Turkey & Cranberry Quesadillas
A delicious way to use up holiday leftovers, these quesadillas are filled with tender turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and melty cheese, all grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
- Leftover turkey shredded
- Cranberry sauce
- Shredded cheese Monterey Jack or Cheddar
- Flour tortillas
Instructions
- Spread cranberry sauce on half of a tortilla.
- Top with turkey and cheese, then fold the tortilla over.
- Grill on a pan until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
- Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream or guacamole.
Desserts
Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
Chocolate Peppermint Mousse is a decadent dessert that's sure to please. Rich and creamy with a hint of peppermint, it’s served chilled and makes for a refreshing end to any holiday feast.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces dark chocolate chopped
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat half the cream until hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate until melted.
- Whip the remaining cream with sugar and peppermint extract to soft peaks.
- Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture.
- Spoon into serving dishes and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Garnish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes before serving
Pumpkin Spice Custard
Indulge in the quintessential flavors of the season with this pumpkin spice custard. Each spoonful is a creamy dream, swirling with the festive spices that define holiday desserts. It's a simple, elegant finale to any celebratory meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a saucepan, combine cream, pumpkin puree, and sugar. Cook over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually whisk the hot pumpkin mixture into the egg mixture.
- Pour the custard through a strainer into ramekins.
- Place ramekins in a baking dish and fill the dish with boiling water halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the custards are set.
- Cool and then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving, adorned with a sprinkle of spice or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra festive touch.
Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Stars
These Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Stars are the perfect appetizers to kick off your holiday festivities. With the tartness of cranberry and the creamy decadence of brie, each bite is a celebration of flavors. They are as delightful to look at as they are to eat, with their festive star shape adding a touch of holiday magic to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 pound brie cheese cut into small pieces
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unfold the puff pastry and cut out star shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place a small spoonful of cranberry sauce in the center of each star.
- Add a piece of brie on top of the cranberry sauce.
- Brush the tips of the pastry stars with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Garnish with a small sprig of rosemary and serve warm.
Spiced Pear Crumble
The spiced pear crumble is a delightful dance of tender pears and warming holiday spices beneath a canopy of buttery crumble. It's a rustic and comforting dessert that fills the room with the scent of nostalgia and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cold butter cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss the pear slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, combine flour, oats, and granulated sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Place the spiced pears in a baking dish and sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the pears.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the topping is golden and the pears are bubbly and tender.
- Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, offering a sweet end to any holiday meal.
Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Indulge in the seasonal flavors of mint and chocolate with these chewy chocolate peppermint cookies, drizzled with silky chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add peppermint extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then fold in chocolate chips.
- Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candy.
Holiday Drinks
Mulled Cranberry Apple Cider
Mulled Cranberry Apple Cider is a warm, spiced beverage that embodies the essence of the holidays. The tartness of cranberry juice mixed with the sweetness of apple cider and a bouquet of spices makes for a cozy drink to share on a chilly evening.
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 1 orange sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 star anise
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine all ingredients.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and let it mull for at least 30 minutes.
- Strain out the spices and orange slices.
- Serve warm in mugs with an optional cinnamon stick for garnish.
Mulled Wine
Nothing warms a wintery evening quite like mulled wine. This festive beverage is simmered with spices and citrus, releasing a scent that is as inviting as its taste.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 oranges one juiced and one for garnish
- 8 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the wine, brandy, and honey/sugar. Warm over medium heat until the honey/sugar dissolves.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, orange juice, cloves, and star anise.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Be careful not to boil to avoid cooking off the alcohol.
- Slice the second orange for garnish.
- Serve the mulled wine warm with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick in each cup.
Hot Chocolate with Peppermint
Cozy up with a mug of rich and creamy hot chocolate, infused with a hint of peppermint for that classic holiday flavor. This vegetarian and gluten-free drink is topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, perfect for sipping by the fireside.
Ingredients
- 4 cups milk or dairy-free alternative
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream or dairy-free alternative
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes and serve immediately for a festive and warming treat.
Sparkling Cranberry Mocktail
Celebrate the season with a bubbly and refreshing sparkling cranberry mocktail. This vibrant, vegan, and gluten-free beverage is a blend of cranberry juice and sparkling water, garnished with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cranberry juice 100% juice, no sugar added
- 2 cups sparkling water or club soda
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Fill four glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour 1/2 cup of cranberry juice and 1/2 cup of sparkling water into each glass.
- Add a splash of lime juice to each and stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
- Serve immediately and toast to good health and festive cheer with this sparkling non-alcoholic delight.
Eggnog Panna Cotta
Transform the classic holiday beverage into a creamy, jiggly dessert with this eggnog panna cotta. It’s a simple yet elegant way to finish a festive meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups eggnog
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet gelatin
- Nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup of eggnog. Let stand for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Heat the remaining eggnog and sugar in a saucepan until sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Pour into dessert glasses and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg before serving for an extra touch of holiday spirit.
Wrapping Up the Easy Holiday Recipes
As the holiday season wraps up, we hope these Easy Holiday Recipes have added a dash of simplicity and a sprinkle of delight to your festive feasts. From the savory richness of the mains to the sweet charm of the desserts, and the toasty warmth of the drinks, each recipe was designed to minimize kitchen time and maximize joy. May these dishes inspire joyous gatherings and become the backdrop to many happy memories. Happy holidays and happy cooking!
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Last updated: November 7, 2023